'We call it the Alpaca-lypse': 175 rescued animals arrive at OSU

CORVALLIS, Ore. - The last of about 175 alpacas rescued from a farm in Polk County arrived at Oregon State University on Tuesday.

"We call it the Alpaca-lypse," said Robyn Thompson, a fourth-year veterinary student at OSU.

The alpacas were removed from a farm near Falls City as part of a rescue operation to help care for and save the lives of the animals.

Helen Diggs, a professor of veterinary medicine at OSU, said about 50 alpacas arrived in two trailer-loads late last week after the ranch owners in Polk County could not care for the animals any longer.

Owners of the ranch that housed the alpacas are facing legal charges.

Some alpacas with special needs are being treated at the large animal hospital in Magruder Hall on the OSU campus.

"They really need the one-on-one with people that are ready to give them some solid TLC," Diggs said.

She said some have serve medical conditions, including parasites, dental issues and infections.